Vodafone, which has operations in the U.S., will offer at least 16 weeks maternity leave on full pay to all new mothers by the end of 2015. In addition to the time off, they will be able to work reduced hours on full pay for the first six months. The new benefit is aimed at allowing mothers to give birth without affecting earnings or their career.

Roughly 500 people working for the company's U.S.-based operation according to The Washington Post.